On April 1, 2018, A-1 Pictures rebranded its Koenji branch studio as CloverWorks, giving it a unique brand identity separate from the main Studio Asagaya.
Later on, on October 1, 2018, CloverWorks announced its separation from A-1 Pictures, although it remained a subsidiary of Aniplex.
Despite being a newer player in the anime industry, CloverWorks has already produced several notable works. While storytelling remains fundamental in anime, animation studios increasingly emphasize their projects’ visual aspects.
Here are some of the best anime produced by Studio CloverWorks, featuring stunning visuals and captivating storylines:
Best Anime By CloverWorks Studio
1. The Promised Neverland
- Episode: 12 (S01), 12 (S02)
- Genres: Drama, Fantasy, Horror, Psychological, Thriller
The anime “The Promised Neverland” is regarded as one of the most significant works produced by CloverWorks and can potentially be a hit. The series is known for its excellent atmosphere and captivating mystery.
Initially, the story portrays a group of orphans, but it gradually transforms into a thrilling tale of survival as they face a difficult alien species. The series’ solid characters and intelligent storytelling make it a standout among other anime. You can also check out some similar anime like The Promised Neverland.
2. Darling In The FranXX
- Episode: 24
- Genres: Action, Mecha Romance
Darling in the FranXX, a mecha anime series, is a notable production by CloverWorks that has gained recognition for its quality and controversial content.
Despite its imperfections, the anime offers much to appreciate, which is worth watching. Additionally, the series features one of the beloved waifu, Zero Two.
3. Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai
- Episode: 13
- Genres: Comedy, Psychological, Romance, Supernatural
In Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai, the themes of identity, self-confidence, and Adolescence Syndrome are explored through the experiences of Sakuta and Mai. Sakuta meets Mai, who appears dressed as a bunny girl, but strangely, he’s the only one who can see her.
As Sakuta sets out to solve this mystery, he grows closer to Mai and learns more about himself. Bunny Girl Senpai perfectly balances comedy, High School Romance, and mystery, making it a must-watch anime.
4. Fairy Tail: Final Series
- Episode: 51
- Genres: Action, Fantasy
Fairy Tail is a popular Shonen anime series that features magical powers and intense battles. Its third and final season, Fairy Tail: Final Series, marks the end of Natsu’s story and consists of 51 episodes. The season begins with the Fairy Tail guild in disarray and at its lowest point.
However, viewers are taken on a thrilling journey as the guild members reunite and showcase why they are truly unique, providing an excellent conclusion to the series. Although CloverWorks did not create Fairy Tail, their contribution to the final season helped elevate the action scenes and capture the full potential of the anime medium.
5. The Millionaire Detective – Balance: UNLIMITED
- Episode: 11
- Genres: Action, Comedy, Mystery, Sci-fi
“The Millionaire Detective” follows the story of Daisuke Kambe, a wealthy heir to one of Japan’s largest fortunes who becomes a detective and solves crimes using his immense wealth. The anime’s structure is well-crafted and engaging, with each case gripping and addictive without becoming repetitive.
This series has been likened to Batman, but Kambe chose not to become a masked superhero. Despite focusing on characters and story rather than animation, CloverWorks delivers an effective and visually impressive anime. “The Millionaire Detective Balance: Unlimited” is a must-watch for fans of crime dramas and compelling characters.
6. Fate/Grand Order
- Genres: Action, Fantasy
CloverWorks has become vital in the Fate series, particularly in the Fate/Grand Order narrative. The story centers around Chaldea, a Security Organization that deploys scientific and magical experts to observe the future of humanity in the face of an imminent extinction event. Chaldea employs the experimental Rayshift technology to counter this threat, enabling time travel.
The Fate/Grand Order anime follows the story of Ritsuka Fujimaru, a newly recruited member of Chaldea, and his half-servant companion Mash Kyrielight, as they travel through different eras to stop the Singularity from occurring in each period.
The anime is full of exciting adventures and action-packed scenes, keeping the audience engaged and on their toes.
7. Persona 5
- Episode: 26
- Genres: Action, Fantasy, Supernatural
CloverWorks has successfully brought the popular JRPG franchise Persona to life by adapting Persona 5 into an anime.
The anime focuses on Ren Amamiya and his Phantom Thieves of Hearts gang. Ren, a transfer student at Shujin Academy, is forced to move to Tokyo after being falsely accused of a crime. He must serve probation while attending school.
During his first day at Shujin, Ren discovers a strange app on his phone that transports him to the Metaverse, a world where the hearts of corrupt individuals are distorted. Along with his friends, Ren becomes the Phantom Thieves of Hearts and embarks on a mission to change the hearts of society’s villains. Check Out Persona Anime Watch Order.
8. Wonder Egg Priority
- Episode: 12
- Genres: Action, Drama, Fantasy, Psychological
CloverWorks’ Wonder Egg Priority is a unique and original anime series that combines magical girl elements with a deep exploration of grief and loss.
The story follows Ai Ooto, who is transported to an alternate world after she cracks a mysterious creature’s egg. The suicide of her only friend fuels this journey, and Ai is left to help others deal with their pain and prevent them from meeting the same fate. Through her efforts, she hopes to bring her lost friend back.
Wonder Egg Priority is a thought-provoking anime that tackles complex ideas and themes with creativity and sensitivity. It’s a poignant and mature series that showcases CloverWorks’ ability to deliver engaging and emotionally impactful storytelling.
9. Horimiya
- Episode: 12
- Genres: Comedy, Romance, Slice of Life
Horimiya is an anime series that explores teen insecurities and the dynamics of opposite personalities. Although it may not seem revolutionary at first, the 13 episodes offer an authentic and relatable story.
The anime follows the story of Kyouko Hori and Izumi Miyamura, who learn to drop their façades and embrace their true selves. This liberating experience brings them closer together.
Horimiya is not focused on grandiose plot twists but on satisfying character development. It provides a genuine portrayal of high school life and social interactions, making it one of the better anime series of its kind.
10. My Dress Up, Darling
- Episode: 12
- Genres: Comedy, Ecchi, Romance, Slice of Life
My Dress Up Darling has gained much attention in the Winter 2022 season as one of the most highly anticipated anime.
The story follows Wakana Gojou, who has a singular passion for making Hina dolls but struggles to find friends who share his obsession.
However, when popular schoolgirl Marin Kitagawa shares her secret interest in cosplay, Wakana finds a new purpose for his sewing skills. Together, they embark on a journey to bring their cosplay dreams to life. If you want to watch shows like this, check out our list of anime shows like My Dress Up Darling.
11. SPY x FAMILY
- Episode: 24
- Genres: Action, Comedy, Slice of Life
CloverWorks and WIT Studio have collaborated to produce the anime series SPY x FAMILY, based on the manga by Tatsuya Endo of the same name. The show follows the story of a secret agent called “Twilight,” who adopts a son and quickly realizes that being a parent is not as simple as his usual missions.
The show blends elements of a Cold War spy drama with the challenges of raising a child, resulting in a unique and humorous genre crossover.
The plot revolves around Twilight’s mission to enroll a child in a prestigious school to monitor a political extremist, leading him to adopt Anya, a girl who can read minds. He then recruits an assassin named Yor to play the role of his wife, and together, they form a pretend family to carry out the mission.
SPY x FAMILY offers an entertaining and engaging story that combines action, comedy, and family dynamics.
12. Bocchi the Rock!
- Episode: 12
- Genres: Comedy, Music, Slice of Life
Bocchi the Rock! is a delightful music anime that follows the story of Hitori Gotou, a shy high school girl who dreams of being in a band. Fortunately, her chance to make that dream a reality comes when she meets Nijika Ijichi, a talented drummer searching for a new guitarist for her band.
Produced by CloverWorks studio, Bocchi the Rock! is one of the best anime series of 2022, offering a heartwarming story about friendship and pursuing one’s passion. This show is just one of many great works that demonstrate CloverWorks’ skill in crafting engaging and memorable anime experiences.
So, these are the best anime from CloverWorks Studio, and they are fun to watch.
